The relationship between religious beliefs and self-esteem in students

Background and aims: Self-esteem is one of the important issues in mental health. Religious beliefs are one of the factors affecting self-esteem. Recently, the impact of religious beliefs on mental health has become the subject of heated debate. The purpose of this study was assessing the relationship between religious beliefs and self-esteem on Medical University students of Jiroft. Methods: This cross-sectional study was done on 216 students of Jiroft Medical University in 2012-2013. Samples were selected randomly. Data were collected via a survey instrument that involved three questionnaires (demographic, religious beliefs of George and self-esteem of Copeer Esteem). Results: The results showed that 73.6% and 26.4% of the subjects were females and males respectively who had a mean age of 20.7±2.93 years. 66.2 percent of the women and 25.9 percent of the men had high levels of religious belief, which were significant statistically (p = 0.033). Pierson statistical test showed a direct and significant correlation between self-esteem and religious beliefs (p< 0.001). Conclusion: The results of this study showed a direct correlation between religious belief and self-esteem in students. Therefore, it is recommended that proper and continuous training in the field of religious awareness is carried out on Students. Thereby, we can reach the goal that people and society have successful and healthy future.